Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Education Center

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Location Details
1751 Grand Blvd
San Jose
CA
95002

Drawbridge Van Excursion

Ghost town Drawbridge, California, seen from train tracks passing over the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Dargaseay
Ghost town Drawbridge, California, seen from train tracks passing over the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Dargaseay

An abandoned town in the San Francisco Bay? That’s right! Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of South San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of nature lovers, or people scrabbling out a living? How long did it exist? Find out at this program, led by Ceal Craig. We will start with a slideshow, and then take a short van excursion to view Drawbridge across Coyote Creek. Program will be of most interest to adults interested in history or nature; children 13 and over with an adult are welcome. Space is very limited. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

Bike Ride Tour

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Join us for a bike tour on the Mallard Slough Trail! We will stop along the way to learn about the refuge, the wildlife and habitats, the importance of Coyote Creek watershed, and the history of the area. The ride is 4.5 miles on a level trail, and there is no shade. Must provide your own bikes, gear, and water bottles. Helmets are required for children. Water and snacks will be provided at a stop. Children ages 10+ recommended. Please use your best judgement on skill level for the distance.

Volunteer Orientations

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If you have an interest in wildlife and their conservation, enjoy working with people, and are enthusiastic and dependable, the Refuge's volunteer program is for you! As a volunteer, you'll receive on-the-job training from staff and other volunteers in the project area you choose. Project areas are restoration projects, information desk on weekends, interpretive programs, school field trips, and citizen science/community service. Volunteer Requirements: attend a volunteer orientation; attend the scheduled trainings; meet the age requirements for the program.

Tiny Drifters

Tiny Drifters in lab
Tiny Drifters in lab

There’s plankton in our Bay! Learn about the different characteristics of plankton and how they have adapted to survive. We will become planktologists for a day, collect water samples and identify these incredible organisms under a microscope! Best suited for ages 7 and up. Register at Register http://eectinydrift.eventbrite.com or call 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.

Hike the Mallard Slough Trail

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Look for birds, mammals, and animal tracks as we explore along the water’s edge on this 3.7-mile nature walk. Bring binoculars and your favorite field guide to help enjoy the views. Have at least one liter of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing. Rain cancels hike. Led by Steve Stolper, certified California Naturalist. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Go to https://hikeeectrail.eventbrite.com. Questions? Call 408-262-5513 ext. 104.